Prince George, the eldest child of Prince William and Princess Catherine, is approaching an important turning point as he prepares to begin secondary school in September 2026. The future king currently attends Lambrook School alongside his younger siblings, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis. But with George set to turn 13 this summer, a new phase of both education and responsibility is drawing closer.
While no official announcement has been made about where he will attend next, speculation has been growing. Prestigious schools such as Eton College and Marlborough College are widely believed to be under consideration, both carrying strong personal ties to the Wales family.
Why the move could be harder than it was for William
As George prepares for this transition, royal commentators have drawn comparisons with Prince William’s own move to secondary school. William began his education at Eton College at the same age, but under very different family circumstances.
Former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond has suggested that George may actually find the experience more emotionally challenging than his father did. William entered boarding school at a time when his parents were already separated, and Eton became something of a refuge during a turbulent period. George, by contrast, has grown up in a close, stable household filled with routine and affection.
Bond explained that leaving such a secure home environment could make the adjustment more difficult. Living away from home for the first time, even in the most privileged of settings, can be a shock for any child, particularly one who has known consistency and strong family support throughout early life.
Education choices and a carefully guided public role
Reports suggest the final decision may come down to Eton College or Marlborough College. Eton, which educated both William and Prince Harry, is a boys-only boarding school located just a short distance from the family’s Windsor home. Marlborough, attended by Princess Kate, is a co-educational boarding school that would allow for a different experience altogether.
Jennie Bond has emphasized that whichever school is chosen, the decision is unlikely to be imposed on George. Instead, it is expected to be the result of careful discussion within the family, taking into account his personality, emotional needs and future role.
Despite being second in line to the throne, George has so far been shielded from regular public duties. However, over the past year, he has begun to make occasional, meaningful appearances. He joined his parents at a VE Day tea party, speaking with Second World War veterans. He accompanied Princess Kate to the Royal British Legion’s Festival of Remembrance. Most recently, he helped Prince William prepare Christmas lunch at a London homelessness shelter, an appearance that echoed William’s own childhood visit to the same charity with Princess Diana.
Even so, Bond believes these moments are carefully chosen exceptions rather than a signal of increased royal responsibilities. For now, George’s focus remains on growing up, learning and preparing quietly for a future that will eventually place him at the very heart of the monarchy.
